São Tomé / Príncipe: public holidays

The tours of Africa’s Eden are not effected by the public holidays in São Tomé & Príncipe. In the weekly newspaper, details are included of the events and celebrations, and the many saints’ days.

Dates

Public holiday

Details

January 1

New Year’s Day

New Year’s Day on São Tomé is often celebrated on the beach. The locals have a tradition of putting on new clothes after a swim in the ocean to welcome the new year.

February 3

Heroes Day

The massacre of Batepá in 1953 is commemorated on this day, with dancing, oral history, wreath-laying.

May 1

Labour Day

International Workers’ Day

July 12

Independence Day

Celebration of independence from Portugal in 1975 with festivities in the capital of São Tomé

September 6

Armed Forces’ Day

Parades through the streets of the capital of São Tomé

November 1

All Saint´s Day

Feast celebrated in honour of all saints, known and unknown

December 21

São Tomé Day

Discovery of the island in 1470

December 25

Christmas

Christmas Day

Source: Bradt Travel Guide, July 2008

Tours

Africa’s Eden offers several attractive tours in Gabon and Príncipe. From just a weekend in Loango or Roça Belo Monte, up to 13 days combination tour Gabon-Príncipe. Read more

Roça Belo Monte

Luxurious resort on the tropical island of Principe Belo Monte Plantation Hotel, offering luxurious accommodation in staggeringly beautiful natural surroundings. While Belo Monte Plantation Hotel is a wonderful place to relax and recharge your spirit, there is also plenty here to explore and discover. Read more

Activities

Want to active explore the island? There are many possibilities: marine excursions like snorkelling, kayaking, scuba diving, whale watching and terrestrial excursions like hiking and biking. Read more

Forever Príncipe

Forever Príncipe conservation alliance is part of the Conservation Tourism Programme on the island of Príncipe in the Gulf of Guinea developed by Africa’s Eden. Read more